The environment is incredible. You get to work with really cool office staff, and then also go to events and work with the children and families which is really rewarding. You get to experience both the planning and fundraising as well as the event side of things which is a great experience.
What I wish was different
Be aware that it isn't paid and that there are time commitments on the weekends, and you might be asked to run/ work events on your own starting pretty soon after you join. However, this is an incredibly rewarding position and definitely worth it.
Advice
Be really open to new experiences! You kind of get thrown right in when you interview and when you start. People will explain things to you if you are confused, so don't be afraid to ask questions. The kids are great, so really make an attempt to volunteer with the events and get to know the families. There are a variety of different events that you can volunteer with, so don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and work on events that you might not initially think are your thing.
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Intern
June - September 2017 • San Diego, CA
What I liked
I loved interacting with the kids. It was very intimidating at first. I really got thrown into it, but autistic children are some of the most loving and supporting children alive. It was so rewarding to help organize events like beach days, trips to the baseball game, and private airport tours. The families are so grateful for the work we do at ATPF and I'm wildly proud to be associated with the foundation.
What I wish was different
I wish that I had done more of the intimate workshops with doctors in the field. There were so many workshops that only had 2 or 3 families attend. I learned so much at these workshops and was able to make hugely important connections to respectable doctors in the area.
Advice
Become comfortable with being uncomfortable! There are going to be times when your social advances are totally ignored and you're going to feel silly, but it's important to take these things personally! Keep trying to discover what each child is interested in and you are bound to make a connection.
